The New England Revolution blew a late 2-0 lead against Orlando on Friday night. Despite tying Orlando 2-2 for a final result, they do extend their unbeaten streak to 8 games, 5 wins 3 ties. With that said, this does feel like a loss. Orlando is not off to a good start in their inaugural season, 2-4-3 record (2 wins 4 losses 3 ties). Despite having world star Kaka in their lineup, they are struggling to score goals. Only 6 goals in their first 8 games, they were coming off back to back shutout losses.

This game was an entertaining game. Plenty of goals, scoring chances for both side, and plenty of physicality from both sides. But it was New England who scored first. Scott Caldwell forced a turnover in Orlando’s end, finds Charlie Davies running down the middle and puts it passed Orlando’s keeper. 4 straight games that Charlie has scored a goal. But the bigger offensive surprise recently is Scott Caldwell. Normally a defensive minded midfielder, in the last 3 games, Scott has recorded an assist. He also scored a few weeks back against Real Salt Lake.

But for most of the rest of the game after New England scored, Orlando did pick up the pace. They were able to better pass the ball, get closer to New England’s net, even had a few shots off target. New England almost made it 2-0 before half time on a corner kick when they hit the post and crossbar. Both Charlie and London Woodberry were both involved.

The second half was a lot of the same. More physical play and yellow cards on both sides. More scoring opportunities for both sides. But it was New England who struck again. Orlando’s defender Rafael Ramos tried to head the ball back to his goalie, not knowing that Kelyn Rowe was sneaking up from behind and pounced on the weak header by Rafael and poked it passed Orlando’s keeper for the 2-0 lead.

That last Revs goal came with 18 minutes left in the game. Considering New England’s defensive record lately, a win seemed likely. WRONG. Just 4 minutes later Rafael Ramos made up for him earlier mistake and assisted a beautiful cross into the Revs penalty area where Cyle Larin headed the ball passed Revs keeper Bobby Shuttleworth for the 2-1 score.

In the 90th minute Orlando’s defender Aurelien Collin would be the hero as he headed in the equalizer for Orlando.